Poll: Heitkamp, Berg Deadlocked In North Dakota Senate Race

Former state attorney general and Democratic nominee Heidi Heitkamp is tied with Rep. Rick Berg (R-ND) in North Dakota’s tight Senate race, according to a new poll released Monday night.

The latest poll from Mason-Dixon shows Heitkamp and Berg each earning the support of 47 percent of the state’s likely voters. Both candidates are well-know among voters, and both are viewed favorably. Heitkamp is viewed favorably 46 percent of North Dakota voters, compared with 35 percent who view her unfavorably. Forty-two percent have a favorable view of Berg, while 37 percent have an unfavorable view.

Berg was elected to the House only two years ago after defeating long-time Democratic Congressman Earl Pomeroy. Heitkamp has been largely out of politics since her defeat in the state’s 2000 gubernatorial election. The two are vying to replace outgoing Sen. Kent Conrad (D-ND).

Despite its competitive nature, the North Dakota Senate race has been lightly polled. In fact, Monday’s survey from Mason-Dixon is one of the only polls of the race that wasn’t commissioned by a campaign or political party. The PollTracker Average currently shows Heitkamp narrowly edging Berg.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Tom Kludt is a reporter for Talking Points Memo based in New York City, covering media and national affairs. Originally from South Dakota, Tom joined TPM as an intern in late-2011 and became a staff member during the 2012 election. He can be reached at tom@talkingpointsmemo.com.